Wednesday, March 26

5 Simple Steps to a Happier Home



The word "home" means something different to each and every one of us. But one thing rings true universally, homes are an extension of who we are. Where we dwell and what we do within those walls affects our daily outlook on life and shapes how we live that life day to day. Here are a few simple things you can do to make your home a happier one.





1. Keep fresh flowers on hand. Its hard not to feel happy with fresh flowers (or a pretty houseplant) around. You don't have to spend big bucks on an elaborate bouquet (although that certainly is worth it from time to time). Pluck a flower or two from your own garden or ask a neighbor for a couple of clippings. Keep an eye out for good deals on pretty bunches at your local market. And don't underestimate what you're putting the flowers in. This is the perfect opportunity to let that little used vase you love so much see some action!

2. Keep clutter contained.  I'm messy. Unread mail gathers on the bench by our front door.  Shoe mountains pile up in the kitchen of all places. Stacks of "I'll make a craft out of this one day" items litter my desk. In other words, I'm cluttery.  Recently I came up with the idea for a "clutter basket". Its a designated messy spot in our house. A catch all for the stuff that I just can't seem to find a spot for (ahem...or am too lazy to try to find a spot for).  Once a week I clean out the clutter basket. This keeps the mess from spreading all over the house and makes the task more manageable when it comes time to tidy up.






3. Display special keepsakes or your favorite collection. Most of the curio sitting around our house has been collected in roadside shops and vintage stores on vacations and weekend trips. Some knick knacks  are gifts from friends or family heirlooms. Every where I look I am surrounded by pieces that contain specific memories and make me smile. Decorating your home shouldn't be about expensive trinkets or designer furniture. Its about showcasing what makes you happy and proud. Let your home tell a story by intermixing items that are close to your heart. 

4. Share your home. Often. Whether you have one friend over for afternoon tea or host a raucous twelve person dinner party, invite others to share your home with you. If you fill your house with laughter and love, you're filling your home with happy memories. I know that sounds like a cheesy phrase better embroidered on a pillow in your grandmother's house than said aloud in this post. But seriously, these are words I live by.

5. Make a date with your home at least once a week. Set aside a few minutes every week (bonus points if you find time every day!) to spend some quality time with your home. Turn off your laptop/phone/television and cozy up in whatever room brings you the most joy. Then just absorb. Admire the way sunlight dapples through a curtain. Appreciate the creaks and groans and other sounds your home makes when you're still and quiet. A couple times a week I wake up an hour earlier than normal, make myself a cup of coffee, put on a favorite record and just sit. For that brief period of time my apartment becomes so much more than just a place I dwell.  It truly feels like home.







Hope you found these tips helpful and enjoyed this little sneak peek of my house. What makes you happiest in your home? I'd love to hear from you! 

{Lauren} 

12 comments:

  1. lovely post! your home is beautiful lauren!

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  2. Oh my goodness, this post! I love the writing, I love the pictures and I especially love the inclusion of that adorable little pup :)

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    1. Our pups will be making more of a regular appearance on F+M. Stick around and see where they pop up next!

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  3. Lauren, This is such a beautiful, fantastic post!! I especially love #5! What a fantastic idea!!! :) Great photos. Your home is so cozy and lovely.

    What makes me happiest in my home? I'd say have friends and family over and sharing a great meal with the people I love the most.

    -Katie

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    1. Aw! Thanks so much, Katie! Cooking big meals for friends and family absolutely makes me happiest in my home, too.

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  4. Cutest home, cutest fam, cutest cutest.

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  5. I love your place, Lauren!! So many sweet details & the tips are great!

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  6. The loveliest of lovelies. Your home is seriously one of my very favorite places to hang out, Lauren. Always so welcoming and peaceful. Love the date with your home tip!

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  7. who you have an absolutely gorgeous home! i wish we had more old looking wood floor style homes here in Phx. beautiful sunlight you have there too it seems and i LOVE all your decorations. really looks like a dream place to me. i love your tips, the clutter def got us in our last place (i blame the hubs while admitting it's my fault too haha) but i think the idea is great to have a date w/ your house. we'll be moving into a tiny apartment soon and i'll need to do this to really think of how to make it look like home.

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